GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspection

Action

DEFINITION: Fuel economy, as measured by actual road tests and several tanks of fuel, is noticeably lower than expected. Also, the economy is noticeably lower than it was on this vehicle at one time, as previously shown by actual road tests.

Preliminary Inspection

    • Refer to Symptoms - Engine Controls .
    • Inspect the air filter for dirt or being plugged.
    • Inspect for an air leak in the charge air cooler with a J 46091 Charge Air Cooler Tester.
    • Inspect the air conditioning system for proper operation.
    • Inspect the tires for correct air pressure.
    • Inspect the driving habits of the owner.
    • Are heavy loads being carried?
    • Suggest to the owner to fill the fuel tank and inspect the fuel economy.
    • Suggest to the driver to read the Important Facts on Fuel Economy in the Owner Manual.

Sensor Inspection

    • Observe the fuel rail pressure (FRP) sensor and the fuel pressure regulator commanded percent at idle. FRP should be near 40 MPa, and commanded percent should be near 40 percent. If the command is high, a fuel pressure or sensor concern exists.
    • Inspect for an intermittent crankshaft position (CKP) sensor signal. Refer to Intermittent Conditions .
    • Inspect the CKP sensor reluctor wheel. Remove the CKP sensor and attempt to move the reluctor wheel front to back or side to side with a probe. If there is any movement the reluctor wheel retaining bolts are loose.

Fuel System Inspection

    • Inspect the fuel type and quality.
    • Inspect the fuel system vacuum. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .

Cooling System Inspection

    • Inspect the engine coolant level.
    • Inspect the engine thermostats for always being open or for the wrong heat range. Refer to Thermostat Diagnosis in Engine Cooling.

Additional Inspection

    • Inspect the transmission for proper operation.
    • Inspect the torque converter clutch (TCC) operation. When the TCC is commanded ON, a scan tool should indicate an RPM drop.
    • Inspect the Service Bulletins for control module software updates.
    • Inspect the brake for proper operation.